The Worldwide Organisation for Women Africa, Incorporated (WOW Africa) on Saturday, concluded a two-day leadership training for students in Anambra State, aiming to instill a learning culture, improve academic performance, and cultivate future leaders in various professions.
The 3rd edition of WOW Africa’s annual leadership programme was organized by the Anambra State chapter and took place at the Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB) Secretariat in Awka, the state capital.
Ethel Eruchalu, the Southeast Coordinator of WOW Africa, expressed the organization’s commitment to empowering the younger generation and equipping them to overcome challenges and make a positive impact on society.
Eruchalu commended Chief Caroline Ugochukwu, the founder of WOW Africa, for her dedication to organizing programmes for children and youth, emphasizing the need for continuous efforts to promote their advancement and well-being.
The theme of this year’s leadership programme was ‘Learning Culture, a Viable T
ool for Sustainable Development.’ Keynote speaker, Mr Chiagoziem Udorji, urged the students to embrace a learning culture, unlock their potential, and strive for excellence not only within Nigeria but also on the global stage.
Drawing inspiration from Japan, Udorji highlighted the power of continuous learning and discovery, noting how these factors propelled the country to become one of the world’s leading nations despite the devastation caused by World War II.
Udorji emphasized that a learning culture goes beyond simply reading; it is an environment that values and encourages continuous learning, growth, and improvement. He encouraged the students to be curious and open-minded, recognizing that they are not just competing with their classmates but with individuals from all over the world.
Udorji stressed that a strong learning culture would greatly shape their futures, especially given the current economic situation in the country.
The Transition Committee Chairman of Aguata Local Government Area, Chibue
ze Offorbuike, spoke about career paths for the future, advising students to develop their skills, identify their passions, and follow the path that aligns with their individual strengths and interests.
He encouraged students to make independent choices regarding their careers, rather than succumbing to parental or peer influence, in order to achieve their personal goals and progress in life.
Dr. Lizzy Osisioma, one of the resource persons at the event, addressed the detrimental effects of early marriage on learning. She emphasised that early marriage deprives children of their childhood and forces them into adulthood before they are ready, leading to physical, emotional, mental, and other developmental issues.
Osisioma highlighted the negative consequences of early marriage, such as the possibility of multiple births, psychological problems, feelings of inadequacy, depression, and more.
Additionally, lfeanyi lgwegbe, the Vice Chairman of the association of persons living with disabilities, stressed the i
mportance of inclusion for individuals with disabilities.
lgwegbe called for the implementation of accessible structures in homes and schools, specialised training for teachers with disabilities, provision of necessary resources in schools, mandatory sign language education, integration of disability-related topics into the curriculum, and overall support for individuals with disabilities to enable them to thrive.
The programme was attended by students from nine selected schools, including Community Secondary School Ajalli, New Era Secondary School Nteje, Community Secondary School Amawbia, Girls Secondary School Abagana, and St. John of God Secondary School Awka. The Executive Director of WOW Africa, Attorney Amaka Akudinobi, Zonal Coordinator Ngozi Chukwujekwu, and Dame Tessy Udemezue Okoye, among others, were also present at the event.
Meanwhile, WOW Africa’s leadership training programme in Anambra State aimed to equip students with a strong learning culture, inspire them to reach their full potential,
and become influential leaders in their chosen fields.
Through the collective efforts of educators, professionals, and community members, the event sought to empower young individuals to make a positive impact and contribute to sustainable development in the society.
Source: Voice of Nigeria